Browned Rice Casserole
A hearty baked rice casserole with savory soups and mushrooms, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to customize with additional vegetables or proteins.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet.
- Add rice and cook over medium heat until rice is light brown, stirring constantly.
- Pour the rice and butter mixture into an ungreased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Add the cream of onion, cream of mushroom, beef consomme, and mushrooms, then stir to combine.
- Cover the casserole dish with a lid or foil.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Taste before serving and add salt if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the rice while browning. You can substitute the cream of mushroom with cream of celery for a different taste, or use homemade cream soups if available. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the beef consomme with vegetable broth. Adding some cooked chicken or vegetables can enhance the dish's nutrition and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting family dinner, serve it alongside crusty bread or biscuits. It also complements beef recipes, like Grilled Sirloin Steak or Old Fashion Beef Barley Soup, for a complete feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Browned Rice Casserole contains roughly 902 calories, with 7g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 745mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes since it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time. You may need to adjust the liquid and baking time, as brown rice typically takes about 50-60 minutes to cook through. Be sure to check for doneness before serving to ensure it is fully cooked.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional depth. You can also mix in cooked sausage or ground beef for a heartier dish. For a kick, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).